‘Zambia’s gemstones conflict-free’
ZAMBIA’S gemstones are conflict-free and are being sought after by many because they can be bought with a free conscience, permanent representative to the United Nations (UN), Ngosa Simbyakula has said.
And the Association of Zambian Women in Mining (AZMIM) said Zambia’s gemstones were often illicitly shipped to some Asian countries before they were re-routed and exported to the United States of America (US) where the market was attractive.
Dr Simbyakula said unlike some precious stones from other countries which were the cause of conflicts, Zambia’s jewels were mined without creating strife.
According to a statement, Dr Simbyakula said this at the AZMIM gemstone exhibition in New York.
He said it was the Government’s policy to empower women especially in sectors that were dominated by the male gender such as mining, to narrow disparities of opportunity, income and power. Dr Simbyakula said empowerment of women was critical in Zambia’s resolve to attain the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Vision 2030 for sustainable development.
“When you empower women, you empower the world. In nations where women are empowered, there are less problems,” he said.
And association president, Marry Mphande Lubemba, said Zambian gemstones were among the most sought after minerals in the world.
Ms Lubemba said Zambian gem and jewellery were often shipped to some countries in Asia and rerouted to the USA where the market was lucrative.
Meanwhile, a representative of the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and Jewellery Designer, Michele Benjamin, called for responsible mining of gemstones.
She said players should avoid the illicit activities in the sector that could harm the industry.
Ms Benjamin, the owner of Finest Elegance in Designer Jewellery, said Zambian gemstones were some of the best in the world and could attract the best market and profits particularly for women in mining.
The association is in New York to market Zambia’s gemstones to the world at the five- day exhibition taking place at the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Zambia to the UN.